In a bold move against illegal immigration, Texas National Guard has seized Shelby Park in Eagle Pass, Texas, implementing strict access controls, including for Border Patrol agents.
By yourNEWS Media Staff
The Texas National Guard, in a significant and controversial move, has seized control of Shelby Park in Eagle Pass, Texas, effectively blocking Border Patrol from entering the area. This action is part of Governor Greg Abbott’s ongoing efforts to curb the surge of illegal immigration into Texas, and it marks a new height in the escalating tensions between the state government and the federal government.
Eagle Pass Mayor Rolando Salinas confirmed that this decision was made under Gov. Abbott’s emergency declaration. However, he clarified that the city had not requested such action and that, as a result, Border Patrol agents are now restricted from the area.
The Texas Military Department stated that its presence in the park, including security points and temporary barriers, has been ongoing since 2021. The department’s current stance is aimed at preparing for potential future surges of illegal immigrants and restricting access to organizations that facilitate illegal crossings.
The Border Patrol union, represented by National Border Patrol Council Brandon Judd, expressed support for Gov. Abbott’s decision. Judd praised the governor’s actions as enhancing Border Patrol operations by allowing agents to focus on areas with high numbers of illegal entries.
This development is the latest in a series of clashes between Texas and the Biden administration over border policies. Gov. Abbott initiated Operation Lone Star in 2021, directing additional resources and law enforcement to the border. This operation included setting up a buoy border barrier in the Rio Grande River, which has led to a lawsuit from the federal government.
Texas has also recently enacted an anti-illegal immigration law, leading to another legal battle with the Biden administration. The federal government argues that this law interferes with its immigration authority and negatively impacts U.S.-foreign relations.
In response to the federal government’s criticisms, Gov. Abbott’s office has accused the Biden administration of exacerbating the border crisis with its policies. The governor’s spokesperson, Renae Eze, emphasized Texas’ commitment to deploying soldiers, state troopers, and barriers to manage the situation.
Additionally, Texas has been actively transporting migrants to “sanctuary” cities across the country to alleviate the pressure on border communities. This strategy has drawn mixed reactions, with some conservatives in Texas voicing strong support for the governor’s measures.
As the legal and political battles continue, the situation at Shelby Park exemplifies the complex and contentious nature of immigration policy and border security in the United States.